Obi Promises To Reopen Calabar Port, Revive Cross River’s Tourism Glory
By ARIT OTONG UBOK
PRESIDENTIAL candidate of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Mr. Peter Obi, has promised to revive the Calabar Port and restore Cross River State’s former prominence as a leading tourism destination.
Obi made the pledge on Wednesday 4 November 2026, during an interactive town hall meeting in Calabar. He attended the engagement alongside Senator Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, other party leaders, candidates and supporters.
The meeting formed part of the NDC’s nationwide consultations aimed at listening to Nigerians, understanding their challenges and presenting the party’s vision for the country.
Before the event, Obi and Kwankwaso led the party’s delegation on a courtesy visit to the Obong of Calabar, His Eminence, Edidem Ekpo Okon Abasi Otu V, at his palace. The traditional ruler welcomed the visitors, offered prayers and shared words of advice.
During the town hall meeting, participants raised concerns about the future of the Calabar Port, declining tourism, insecurity, economic hardship and the welfare of Nigerians.
Responding to the concerns, Obi promised that an NDC-led government would prioritise national unity and security. He also pledged greater investment in critical sectors, particularly education and healthcare, while reiterating his commitment to reducing poverty.
On maritime development, the former Anambra State governor said his administration would make the Calabar Port fully operational. He extended the commitment to other ports across the Niger Delta, stressing that their revival would unlock significant economic opportunities.
Turning to tourism, Obi recalled the period when Calabar, Obudu and other destinations in Cross River attracted holidaymakers from across Nigeria and abroad. However, he blamed poor governance and inadequate attention for the decline in the state’s tourism fortunes.
To demonstrate his personal commitment, he pledged to spend his holidays at Cross River’s tourism destinations if elected President. He said the move would help promote the state’s attractions and encourage renewed interest in its hospitality industry.
Obi also urged NDC members and supporters to prepare to protect their votes during the 2027 general elections. He made the appeal while alleging that the party continued to face hostility from the government.
Meanwhile, the presidential candidate thanked the party’s candidates, members, supporters and organisers for their participation. He also appreciated the people of Cross River State for their warm reception.
The Calabar engagement followed Obi’s return from a working visit to the United States on Tuesday 3 November. He disclosed that he had subsequently met NDC candidates in Lagos before travelling to Cross River the following morning.
